He added: “Our intelligence suggests a minority of people have become dependent on alcohol and the latest legal high drugs for a number of reasons.

“In a minority of cases, they resort to begging to raise money to pay for these items.

“While organisations such as TAH provide support and housing for those who find themselves homeless and suffering with related health issues, not all people necessarily wish to engage with them.

“To disrupt and act in an anti-social manner in the town centre isn’t acceptable and won’t be tolerated.”

Sgt Kimmins, who met relevant agencies on Friday to discuss issues surrounding legal highs – also called new psychoactive substances - said: “The police have seen an increase in problems that have resulted through the use of legal highs.

“This has also been replicated by our partner emergency services and support agencies.

“Legal highs mirror the same effects as illegal class A and B drugs and the same negative medical consequences through abuse.

“But the fact that a substance is sold as legal to possess, doesn’t mean it’s safe.

“You cannot really be sure what’s in a legal high you’ve bought or been given, or what effect it’s likely to have on you.